I have sincerely enjoyed my time in ENVR430 so much. I found the format of the course to be low-risk which made me feel comfortable answering and asking questions (general participation). I also felt that it fostered curiosity and community by having us regularly engage in conversation about topics to learn them rather than feel pressured to take detailed notes to regurgitate later or memorize facts. I felt the low risk format allowed me to ask more questions and think about topics more deeply as opposed to memorizing details to regurgitate on exams. I felt better about turning off my laptop and listening to every work Kai said which allowed for better engagement and memory consolidation as his examples hit home and were really interesting (and shocking). I found little to no issue with the online format (Cosphere, online readings and videos) and even found that it made the course more accessible by removing the cost of textbooks and taking advantage of media platforms we already use and that are easy to use (netflix etc). I also leave this course feeling better prepared to tackle real environmental issues in the world and a renewed feeling of empowerment and that I can make a difference.
I appreciate seeing this exam-free format in a course as important and informative as this one.
The final presentations thus far have really brought everything from the course and tied it together so amazingly. It is truly inspiring what we are capable of as students.
Thank you so much for everything, Kai and Dana! <3
I also feel like I've left this course feeling better prepared to tackle real environmental issues in the world and have a renewed sense of empowerment in making a difference!